This project is developing a low-cost, visibly transparent, passively switchable dynamic infrared (IR) window coating that integrates IR-reflective sub-wavelength nanostructures in a buckling layer. The reversible buckling effect switches from transmitting to reflecting in the IR only as the window coating temperature increases. Two prototype films will be created: (1) a laboratory-scale (1 inch) dynamic IR-responsive coating with a near-infrared (NIR) transmission delta of 20% and a visible transmission of greater than 50%, as well as a temperature switching window in the 30°–90°C range; and (2) a bench-scale (6 inch) integrated buckling and sub-wavelength film with an average NIR transmission delta of 10%–15% (over 750–900 nanometers), an average visible transmission of at least 50%, and a temperature switching window in the 30°–90°C range.
DOE Technology Manager: Karma Sawyer
Performer: Kyle Alvine, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory